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Need Help?

When does caring become controlling? When does affection become obsession? When does talking become stalking?

If you feel like you or someone you know might be in an abusive relationship, there are people you can talk to and resources that can help.

Recognizing Abuse?

Not sure if a situation is abusive or not? Ask yourself if your boyfriend or girlfriend:

  • is overly jealous or possessive?

  • puts you down or criticizes you?

  • threatens or scares you?

  • hits, slaps, pushes, or kicks you?

  • controls where you go, what you wear, or what you do?

  • tries to stop you from seeing or talking to friends and family?

  • tries to force you to have sex?

What Can You Do...

  • Call the police if you are in danger and seek medical attention if you are hurt.
  • You are not alone and the abuse is not your fault.
  • Talk with somebody you trust: a friend or relative, someone from school or your community.
  • Think independently. Remember that you are the expert about your own life. Don't let anyone talk you into doing something that's not right for you.
  • Have a safety plan in the event you are abused again.
    Here are some tips.
  • Find out more about being a Tech Savvy Teen
  • Know that there are people and organizations that are equipped to help you.
  • If you truly care for someone, you will not allow him or her to be abused, by you or anyone else.
  • Talk to someone you trust, like a close friend, family member, or someone you respect, like a teacher or counselor at school. Ask his/her honest opinion about your behavior.
  • If necessary, help your friend get medical attention. Encourage your friend to contact a professional or an adult they trust for help.
  • Offer your unconditional friendship and support. Be clear that you are there to listen, and not to judge.
  • Tell your friend it's not his/her fault.
  • Don't spread gossip. This could make your friend's situation more dangerous.
  • Don't try to confront the abuser or rush your friend into a decision he/she isn't comfortable with.
  • If you feel safe doing so, encourage your friend to talk to a counselor or an adult they trust for help.
  • Don't cut off your friend. Listen to your friend and help them clarify their feelings.
  • Encourage them to be honest.
  • Understand that abuse is a choice and don't get stuck in the middle.
  • Don't encourage or joke about abuse.

Need Help?

Get Serious Help, Right Now

Sometimes things in a relationship can get pretty heavy. If you need to talk to someone right now, someone who's trained to help, the National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. All calls and chats are anonymous and confidential. You can call 1-866-331-9474 (1-866-331-8453 TTY) or chat online from 4pm-12am CST. You can launch the live chat by clicking LIVE CHAT bubble:

Talk It Out